25. 09. 2024.

VIDEO – Exclusive Interview with aps CEO Wolfgang Dillbaum-Alexius at SEGA 2024: Insights into the Future of Aviation in the South-East Market

The South Eastern General Aviation Conference (SEGA 2024) was an electrifying event, bringing together aviation experts, industry leaders, and innovators from across the globe. With a flourishing market and a myriad of aviation topics on the table, SEGA 2024 offered an insightful look into the future of aviation, particularly in the rapidly growing South-East European sector.

At the heart of this year’s conference was an exclusive interview conducted by Aero.rs, a division of Serbia’s leading media powerhouse, Telegraf.rs, with none other than Wolfgang Dillbaum-Alexius, the CEO of aps Aviation Parts GmbH and co-founder of our Serbian subsidiary, aps Aviation Parts Service D.O.O. Mr. Dillbaum-Alexius spoke candidly about his experience expanding aps into the South-Eastern European market alongside his partner, Nenad Spasić. Their collaboration has not only solidified aps’ presence in the region but has also propelled Serbia into the spotlight of the aviation sector.

The South-East Market: A Growing Powerhouse

Mr. Dillbaum shared the challenges and rewards of entering the South-East European aviation market, a region that, until recently, had been largely overlooked by major industry players. “When I started with Nenad it was a big adventure for both of us […] and the Eastern was a blank spot,” Dillbaum-Alexius remarked. “and after 13 years, I’m more than happy of what we have achieved here. And I personally see the future of general aviation here.”

He credited much of aps’ success in the region to the partnership with Spasić, who brought a deep understanding of local markets and an ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes. Together, they have built a foundation that promises long-term growth in South-Eastern Europe’s aviation industry.

Navigating Challenges in Today’s Aviation Landscape

Despite the optimistic outlook, Mr. Dillbaum didn’t shy away from discussing the challenges the industry faces, both globally and regionally. From regulatory hurdles and human ressources gaps to the pressing need for sustainability, aviation is at a crossroads.

“Manpower, there is not enough manpower on the market to serve the aircraft and supply chain,” Mr. Dillbaum stated. “The industry hasn’t recovered yet form the Pandemic.”

He emphasized the need for a collaborative approach, particularly between aviation companies ans educational organizations and early exposure of young generations to the passion of aviation. The future of aviation, Mr. Dillbaum believes, depends on how well we can these actors can work together to overcome these obstacles.

A Hopeful Outlook for the Future

Despite the challenges, Mr. Dillbaum is optimistic about what lies ahead. “We see the future very positive , you see progress like MIND Park, what they [aps Serbia] do with the airport [Airport Ecka], we see that a lot of young people, especially here in Serbia are fascinated about aviation.” he noted, highlighting advancements in technology, collaborations, and a greater emphasis on human ressources. “I don’t have any doubt that Serbia and also this region will develop aviation more fast and bigger than in Western Europe. And we are partners, and I will contribute as much as I can do for the region here.”

Wolfgang-Dillbaum’s interview at SEGA 2024 leaves us with a sense of excitement and anticipation for aviation in South-Eastern Europe in the coming years.

The full video interview, featuring more of Mr. Dillbaum’s thoughts on the challenges and opportunities in the aviation industry, is available below:

[Watch the Full Interview Here]

SEGA 2024 proved to be a landmark event for the aviation community, offering a forward-looking vision for the future of flight in a rapidly changing world. For South-Eastern Europe, the sky’s the limit—and leaders like Wolfgang Dillbaum-Alexius and Nenad Spasić are paving the way.